John Arbuckle Barnes
Passed: February 10, 2026
Hurricane, WV
- Share:
John Arbuckle Barnes
Passed: February 10, 2026
Hurricane, WV
Obituary
John Arbuckle Barnes, 90, passed away peacefully on February 10, 2026, at Celebration Villa of Teays Valley.
John was born on February 3, 1936, in Charleston, West Virginia, to Arnold Appleton Barnes Sr. and Frances Arbuckle Barnes. He grew up in West Virginia and later attended The Lawrenceville School in New Jersey before continuing his education at the University of Virginia, where he studied French.
After graduating college, John worked with his father as an appraiser and later at Charleston National Bank. In July 1970, he married Mary Jean, the love of his life, and together they shared 48 wonderful years of marriage.
Music was a special joy in John’s life. A talented organist, he played for many churches in and around the Charleston area, sharing his love of music with congregations and friends for many years. His faith was central to his life, and he remained a devoted Christian who cherished his time in church, fellowship, and Bible study.
John was also a deeply devoted son who spent many years lovingly caring for his mother, Frances, a reflection of his quiet kindness and strong sense of family.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mary Jean; his brother, Arnold Appleton Barnes Jr.; and his parents, Arnold Appleton Barnes Sr. and Frances Arbuckle Barnes.
John is remembered by his nieces, Judith Barnes Ball and Amy Barnes Hurley; his nephew, Arnold Appleton Barnes III; and his sister-in-law, Sally Spall Barnes, along with extended family and friends who will miss him dearly.
A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on April 25, 2026, at St. Marks United Methodist Church in Charleston, West Virginia, where John had been an active member for 20 years.
John will be remembered for his gentle spirit, his devotion to family and faith, and the music he shared with so many throughout his life.
A special thank you to SweetBriar Assisted Living for the decade of care provided to John. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Mary Jean Barnes Music Fund at the Methodist Foundation, P.O. Box 3811, Charleston, WV, 25338, would be appreciated.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.barlowbonsall.com.
Balow Bonsall Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.
3 responses to John Arbuckle Barnes
Debra says:
March 4, 2026
i cared for you John. being your caregiver for years was a pleasure. very intelligent and caring man. you will be missed
Amy Brown says:
February 17, 2026
I met John when I worked at Kanawha Presbyterian as the secretary. He was a member there. He used to come and take myself and Tom Toliver out to lunch. He was always good to me and would always stop to talk when I would see him out somewhere years later. He was a good man. Rest easy John.
Jason Vanhoose says:
February 13, 2026
Prayers Mr. Barnes. You are now reunited with your Bride and at the Right Hand of the Father. It was a pleasure meeting you and spending your 90th Birthday with you. You my good man brought tears to my eyes and I will not ever forget the words you spoke. Thank you for allowing us to be with you during a time of need. Jason Cornerstone Caregiving of Charleston.